Li SJ, Tang L, Zhao L, et al. - This study was undertaken to investigate the impact of of Achilles tendon on the kinematic coupling relationship between tarsal bones, and to illustrate how kinematic coupling relationship between tarsal bones works in term of finite element analysis. Researchers developed a three-dimensional finite element model of foot and ankle based on the Chinese digital human girl No.1 image database applying the software of mimics, Geomagic studio, HyperMesh, and Abaqus. The data showed that the Achilles tendon existence or not and ankle position had great influence, while increased stiffness of Achilles tendon had no affect on kinematic coupling association between tarsal bones. It was shown that earlier implementation of PAT procedure (with the purpose of release the Achilles tendon and reduce the degree of ankle plantar flexion) may be beneficial to the deformity correction for the cases with severe equinus.